China has announced new climate targets that include an absolute reduction in carbon emissions by 7% to 10% from their peak by 2035, marking a shift from previous commitments focused solely on peaking emissions levels.
The revised targets, released this week, also outline plans to expand the country’s wind and solar capacity to over 3,600 gigawatts by 2035, more than double the approximately 1,684 GW recorded as of July 2025. Non-fossil energy sources are set to account for over 30% of total energy consumption under the new framework.
“This is the first time China has committed to an absolute reduction in emissions, signalling a shift in its long-term climate ambition,” a government statement said.
The announcement includes measures to broaden the scope of China’s national carbon emissions trading system, with plans to include most high-emitting sectors. The expanded approach is aimed at reinforcing market-based mechanisms to support decarbonisation efforts.
The updated roadmap continues to prioritise renewable energy deployment across wind, solar, and other clean technologies, while also acknowledging a gradual transition away from fossil fuel dependence.
However, analysts said the targets may not be sufficient to align with global pathways for limiting warming to 1.5°C, particularly as new coal-fired power projects continue to receive approval.
Despite these concerns, China’s ramp-up in renewables signals ongoing confidence in its manufacturing capacity and domestic scale. The country remains the world’s largest producer of solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles.
“China is clearly positioning itself to lead the global energy transition through investment in clean technology, though questions remain over the pace of its fossil fuel phase-out,” said one industry analyst.
